Computer Vision Syndrome

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Studies have shown that people working on computers blink their eyes less often than they should. Computer users only blink 6-8 times per minute as compared to the normal rate of 16-20 per minute. Blinking provides moisture to our eyes and protects it from dryness. Blinking also protects the eye from irritants. Eyelashes are hairs attached to the upper and lower eyelids that create a line of defense against dust and other elements to the eye. The eyelashes catch most of these irritants before they reach the eyeball.

According to studies, those who work at least two hours a day on a computer may already suffer from Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). The symptoms of CVS include eyestrain, headaches, fatigue, double vision, blurred vision, eye irritation, light sensitivity, and inability to properly focus on near objects after a short duration.

Medical experts suggest the following to minimize the effects of Computer Vision Syndrome:

• Ensure that your working area is well-lighted and glare-free

• Use eye drops to keep your eyes moist

• Make sure that the air originating from a fan or air-conditioner does not flow across your face and does not dry your eyes.

• Take regular breaks, medical experts suggest that we rest our eyes every 20 minutes.

• If you’re wearing eyeglasses, try availing special lenses with coated surface designed specifically for computers.

• Don’t stick your face so close to your computer screen. Position the monitor a bit lower than your eye-line so that your eyes are not directly aligned to your computer screen.

The Computer Vision Syndrome afflicts children and adults who use the computer heavily. Even though there is no clear evidence that this syndrome can cause any permanent damage to our eyes, we should all take CVS seriously.